LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, despite losing his Speakership in an unprecedented vote, announced on Friday, October 6, that he has no intentions of resigning from Congress.
He also announced that he intends to run for a 10th term in the next year's election, a decision that didn't sit well with netizens.
Rumors had circulated that McCarthy, a Republican from California, was contemplating an early departure from Congress following his removal as Speaker. However, McCarthy, 58, dismissed these reports during an interview with KGET 17 News in his hometown of Bakersfield.
He confirmed that he would complete his current term representing California's 20th Congressional District and seek re-election in 2024.
Kevin McCarthy's political journey from Congressman to House Speaker
McCarthy's political career began when he was first elected to Congress in 2006, and he steadily climbed up the House Republican hierarchy, ultimately becoming Speaker in January.
In response to questions about his future after the Tuesday vote that ousted him, McCarthy did not rule out the possibility of resigning, stating, "I haven't thought about that."
Reports speculating on an early departure suggested that he might remain at least until a new Speaker was elected, which is tentatively scheduled for the following week.
While McCarthy has ruled himself out as a candidate to reclaim the Speaker's position, he mentioned in his exit speech and subsequent news conference on Tuesday that he intends to "continue to fight" for the American people but may do so "in a different manner," as per New York Post.
He also humorously remarked to his GOP colleagues, "Don't worry, I've raised a helluva lot of money in the last hour." The race to succeed McCarthy as Speaker has already gained momentum, with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) both announcing their candidacies and being considered front-runners.
Internet users react to Kevin McCarthy's decision
Internet users voiced their strong disapproval of McCarthy. A user stated, "Given how he lies, he might change his mind again. He’s useless."
Another added, "You want nothing but chaos for Cali politics." A third claimed, "You can’t lead people who have lost trust in and respect for you.This will be interesting!"
"Unless, of course, he's lying again," mocked a user. "That's the flip flop wish washy bulls#%?! That got his a*s thrown out!" read a tweet.
